New seats have been installed at the Westerner Park Centrium for the first time since it was built in 1991 (Photo: screenshot from video released by The City of Red Deer)

By Troy Gillard

new seats and score clock featured

Centrium upgrades nearly complete

Nov 17, 2020 | 2:07 PM

Work on $3 million in upgrades to the Westerner Park Centrium is nearly complete.

Last year, Red Deer city council approved a capital request to help with renovations needed at the nearly-30-year-old facility as part of the city’s 2020 capital budget.

Renovations include updating dressing rooms, adding additional railing to the outer edge of the concourse, new modernized LED score clock and signage, and one of the biggest projects, replacing the original spectator seats from 1991 to meet modern facility standards.

Westerner Park officials had aimed to complete renovations before hockey players started arriving for the World Junior Championship that were set to run Dec. 26, 2020, to Jan. 5, 2021, which has since been deferred to 2021/2022. Officials say construction during the pandemic occurred more efficiently due to no events being held in the facility, while renovations also provided local economic stimulus by employing local trades.

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“The renovations and upgrades will enhance guest experience at Westerner Park and ensure the comfort and safety for everyone that attends events in the Centrium,” said Mike Olesen, Westerner Park CEO. “The upgrades will also create more interest from national and international events to consider Red Deer and Westerner Park for upcoming events.”

Hockey Canada has brought 47 players to Red Deer for its team selection camp for this year’s World Juniors. The camp, which is taking place in a cohort bubble that is closed to the public and media, runs at the Centrium through Dec. 13. The selection camp will include practices and three intrasquad games, as well as six games against a team of sports all-stars, some of which will be broadcast on TSN, before the team enters the bubble in Edmonton.

“Not being able to host World Juniors this year was a significant disappointment for many Red Deerians who were anticipating welcoming the international hockey community back to our city,” said Mayor Tara Veer. “I know Red Deer will be ready to welcome the world to our community in 2021/2022, and will actively continue our preparations for this incredible opportunity for our city. This year, we are glad to be able to participate in preparation for the World Juniors by hosting a selection camp bubble at the Centrium.”

The Red Deer Rebels are currently scheduled to return to Western Hockey League action at the Westerner Park Centrium starting in January.

“We’re incredibly excited for hockey fans to experience the bold changes taking place inside our home, the Centrium,” said Merrick Sutter, Sr. Vice President, Red Deer Rebels. “The much needed upgrades provide a fresh, clean look for all guests and events, and further cements the facility as a premiere destination for major events and junior hockey.”

(With file from media release)